Vance Ensures US Continues to Support Religious Liberty Globally
The vice president emphasized the United States’ ongoing efforts to protect religious freedom both domestically and internationally, acknowledging that there is still much work to be done. Vice President JD Vance highlighted the administration’s commitment to upholding religious freedom as a fundamental principle, ensuring that individuals can practice their faith without discrimination. He noted that under President Trump’s leadership, religious freedom was prioritized in foreign policy initiatives, focusing on countries like China, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
During his speech at the International Religious Freedom Summit, Vance expressed the administration’s determination to build upon the progress made in the previous four years. He mentioned President Trump’s meetings with victims of religious persecution from countries such as China and North Korea, underscoring the importance of advancing religious liberty globally.
Vance also criticized past U.S. funding that supported atheism promotion, pledging to end such initiatives. He questioned the allocation of funds towards NGOs dedicated to spreading atheism worldwide, stating that the current administration would discontinue such practices.
Moreover, he commended Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his dedication to religious liberty, highlighting Rubio’s efforts in promoting legislation to address forced labor and persecution, particularly the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and the Falun Gong Protection Act.
Vance concluded his remarks by emphasizing the continued commitment to ensuring religious liberty for individuals of all faiths, acknowledging the ongoing efforts needed to achieve this goal.
As he left the stage, Vance raised his fists in a symbolic gesture popularized by President Trump, who had famously attributed divine intervention to surviving an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania in July 2024.
